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Published in: Chinese Medicine 1/2011

Open Access 01-12-2011 | Research

Molecular identification of Lodoicea maldivica (coco de mer) seeds

Authors: Chun-yin Mak, Chuen-shing Mok

Published in: Chinese Medicine | Issue 1/2011

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Abstract

Background

The edible endosperm of Lodoicea maldivica with the common name of coco de mer is used in Chinese medicine for treating cough. Native to Seychelles, Lodoicea maldivica seeds have commanded high prices for centuries due to its scarcity. This study aims to develop a molecular identification method for the authentication of Lodoicea maldivica seeds.

Methods

DNA was extracted from the sample. Two polymerase chain reaction (PCR) systems were developed to amplify a region of the chloroplast DNA and the nuclear phosphoribulokinase (PRK) region specific to Lodoicea maldivica respectively. DNA sequence of a sample was determined and compared with that of the Lodoicea maldivica reference material.

Results

The PRK gene of Lodoicea maldivica was successfully amplified and sequenced for identification.

Conclusion

A new molecular method for the identification of Lodoicea maldivica seeds in fresh, frozen or dried forms was developed.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Molecular identification of Lodoicea maldivica (coco de mer) seeds
Authors
Chun-yin Mak
Chuen-shing Mok
Publication date
01-12-2011
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Chinese Medicine / Issue 1/2011
Electronic ISSN: 1749-8546
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1749-8546-6-34

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